How Savannah Handles Accessory Structures: A Practical Guide

Savannah maintains 102 local ordinances across all categories, and 5 of those deal specifically with accessory structures. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Savannah falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

ADU Rules

Savannah regulates ADUs through local zoning. Georgia has no statewide ADU mandate. Atlanta has adopted ADU-friendly zoning updates.

Key details: State Mandate: None in Georgia. Max Size: 600 to 800 sq ft typical. Owner Occupy: Often required. Permit: Building permit required.

Unpermitted ADU: $500 to $2,000. May require demolition or retroactive permitting. Zoning violation: $250/day.

Garage Conversions

Savannah regulates garage conversions through building and zoning codes. Permits required. Replacement parking may be needed.

Key details: Permit: Building permit required. Parking: Replacement may be needed. Code: Must meet habitable standards. HOA: May prohibit conversions.

Unpermitted conversion: $500 to $2,000. May require restoration to garage or retroactive permitting.

Shed Rules

Savannah regulates sheds and outbuildings through zoning and building codes. Small sheds (under 120 to 200 sq ft) may be permit-exempt.

Key details: Permit Exempt: Under 120 to 200 sq ft. Setbacks: Required even if exempt. Height: Per zoning code limits. HOA: May restrict placement.

Building without permit: $200 to $500. Setback violation: forced relocation or removal. HOA fines separate.

Tiny Homes

Savannah regulates tiny homes differently based on whether they are on a permanent foundation or on wheels. Zoning and minimum square footage requirements apply.

Key details: Foundation: Treated as dwelling. On Wheels: RV classification typically. Min Size: 400 to 800 sq ft varies. ADU Path: May allow as secondary.

Unpermitted dwellings: removal or retroactive permitting. Zoning violations: fines and required relocation. Occupancy without certificate: prohibited.

Carport Rules

Savannah requires permits for carport construction. Setback requirements, height limits, and lot coverage maximums apply.

Key details: Permit: Required. Side Setback: 3 to 5 feet typical. Lot Coverage: Counts toward maximum. HOA: May restrict or prohibit.

Unpermitted carports: stop-work orders, required removal or retroactive permitting with penalty fees. Fines $200 to $1,000.

The Bottom Line

Savannah's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Savannah is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Savannah can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.